updated 03:20 pm EDT, Tue October 4, 2011

iPod touch and iPod nano get minor refresh

Apple used its October 4 event to unveil modest updates to the iPod touch and iPod nano. The iPod touch keeps its familiar design but now has the option of white. It's still believed to keep the A4 processor as it stops at 720p video recording, although it may now have a new oleophobic (oil-resistant) coating.

Software is the primary focus, as the iPod touch gets all non-phone features of iOS 5, including iCloud when it's on Wi-Fi.

Pricing has only changed at the low end for the iPod touch, which now costs $199 for an 8GB version (down from $229). The 32GB and 64GB versions still cost $299 and $399.

The iPod nano has received more substantial updates. The interface now has the choice of larger icons with an easier, one-by-one interface for changing info mid-run. Nike+ run tracking is now completely self-contained and doesn't need any external adapters to track calories, distance, pace, and steps. Apple has acknowledged the rush of demand for the iPod nano as a makeshift watch and has 16 new watch faces, including various analog and digital looks as well as special Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse faces.

Apple is selling the iPod nano in seven colors and has lowered the base prices, dropping 8GB to $129 and $149 for 16GB.

Both new iPods are available today at retail and in the online Apple Store.

Nano upgrade?

Will we be able to upgrade the 6th gen Nano touch (via firmware) to have some of these new UI features? The new Nano hardware seems like it must be different if it no longer requires the Nike+ attachment, but I sure hope Apple has a software upgrade coming...

A bit disappointed

The Nano is the same with an interface tweak.
(I don't have any trouble with the old interface)
The Touch is the same but in white
(BFHD. I keep mine in a case anyway.)

In reality no significant changes at all. I was hoping for improvements to the Touch. Better camera. A 80 or 128Gb Touch to replace the Classic. A speed boost. Tweaks and maybe a couple of sensors so more iPhone Apps can run on it. But no it is the same unit under the skin. (and for the black one the skin too.). iOS5 looks good and it will run but we'll see how that helps, and what features work on the Touch. I suspect some will be disabled.

The only upside is that I've had my Nano for nearly a year and my Touch for 6 months and they were not 'obsoleted' by todays unveiling. I can't remember the last time I could go a couple of years without getting 'new model envy'.